I was wondering if there is anyone else out there that has gone through this... A few months ago, I started leaking and air passing through my stoma. After seeing the doctor in December, he was shocked to find this hole - so shocked that he was unsure of how it got there, let alone how to fix it. I have been told my surgery will be anytime but could take until February. I'm a little freaked out but know my doctor will figure it out.
lilcherub
Jan 15, 2014 3:47 pm
ron in mich
Jan 15, 2014 5:01 pm
Hi Lil, it sounds like what is called a fistula, which is caused by an infection due to an illness like Crohn's disease. I would do some research before having surgery. Good luck.
This is a remarkable community of 40,884 members.
You will get real advice from fellow ostomates who truly understand you - things you won't find in the books.
And it's not all about ostomy - there is friendship and relationships too.
Privacy is very important - your profile is not visible to the outside world.
Justbreathe
MeetAnOstoMate website turned out to be a lifesaver for me. I say this because, for me, this ostomy journey was a devastating event both physically and mentally.
Here, I found folks who understood my feelings even better than my family or friends could. Only a fellow ostomate can understand how you really feel.
Information sharing is key, as well as support and understanding, to ultimately bring more harmony into our ostomy life journey. I found here, virtually no ostomy questions that are not touched upon. Questions which some might feel, may be too trivial to contact a doctor about or even too shy or embarrassed to ask their own doctor about. They are all addressed here.
For me, anonymity was very helpful in seeking answers to each phase of this life changing medical and mental event. Sharing initial trauma feelings, ongoing support and finally acceptance was what I found with my membership here. I am not sure what my mental and physical attitude would be today without having found this site.
Additional benefits included: finding products and ideas to help with daily maintenance, innovative ideas and as a bonus - some great humor.
After all “laughter IS the best medicine”.
I have been a member for 3 years, an ostomate for 4 years - yes, I certainly wish I would have found it immediately after surgery but so very thankful I finally found it when I did as I truly believe it turned my troubled depression and situation into a more positive attitude and acceptance.
Sincerely,
An Ileostomate nicknamed Justbreathe 🫶🏼
sony34
Jan 15, 2014 9:23 pm
I am just now learning about this BCIR procedure. Can we chat more about it? I want to see if I should discuss with my doctor... Thanks.
Advertisement
Hollister
It’s natural to feel stressed about possible relationship issues related to your ostomy.
Explore common concerns about new and existing relationships, and how to put your mind at ease.
Explore common concerns about new and existing relationships, and how to put your mind at ease.
lilcherub
Jan 15, 2014 11:15 pm
Sure, you can feel free to ask away. I have had mine since 2002 and had a rough time, but the few rough times will never make me regret my choice. I love it and it's so life-changing. As in 97, I had the external ostomy.
TimothyP
Jan 23, 2018 5:00 am
I have had my ostomy since the age of 15. I seem to manage okay day to day.
Avoiding Ostomy Bag Leaking | Managing Ostomy Leaks with LeeAnne Hayden
